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!
Filter (1)
Sold out
Armistead Maupin
|
Black
Swan
The Night Listener
Regular price
$9.90
$3.90
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.68
Regular price
$9.90
$3.90
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
78% off est. retail
If the interplay between truth and fiction intrigues you, "The Night Listener" might just captivate your imagination. Armistead Maupin crafts a tale that delves deep into the human need for connection, seamlessly blending emotional depth with a grip of suspense. It's for those who appreciate when a story can both challenge the mind and touch the heart with a narrative that stays with you, long after the final page is turned.
Sold out
Rowan Coleman
|
Arrow
Growing Up Twice
Regular price
$9.90
$3.90
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.82
Regular price
$9.90
$3.90
61% off
- Unit price
- / per
89% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that delve into the complexities of life and relationships, "Growing Up Twice" by Rowan Coleman will resonate with you. It paints a nuanced picture of motherhood and the layers of personal growth that accompany it. As you flip through its pages, expect to find your heartstrings pulled and your perspective on family and self-evolution expanded.
Sold out
Brian Platzer
|
Atria
Books
The Body Politic: A Novel
Regular price
$8.90
$5.90
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.51
Regular price
$8.90
$5.90
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
86% off est. retail
If you're moved by stories that weave personal struggles with historical events, "The Body Politic" might resonate with you. Through the lens of four friends navigating their intertwined lives in a post-9/11 New York City, it captures a collective experience while spotlighting individual battles. The novel touches on the compelling themes of ambition, loyalty, and the trials of adulthood. It portrays a vivid tableau of personal growth against the backdrop of a changing city, making it especially relevant for those who appreciate explorations of friendship and societal shifts.
Sold out
Sarah Rayner
|
Macmillan
Another Night, Another Day
Regular price
$10.90
$3.90
64% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.7
Regular price
$10.90
$3.90
64% off
- Unit price
- / per
76% off est. retail
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.
Sold out
Evie Wyld, Jackie Kay, Colin Grant |
Birkbeck
MIR 10
Regular price
$10.90
$3.90
64% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.6
Regular price
$10.90
$3.90
64% off
- Unit price
- / per
76% off est. retail
"MIR 10" is like taking a world trip from your armchair, tapping into a vibrant tapestry of cultures, experiences, and emotions. The anthology breaks the mold, showcasing how diverse voices can weave unforgettable narratives that resonate with anyone looking for fresh, authentic storytelling. Each piece promises to challenge your views or tug at your heartstrings, making it a precious find for literary explorers.
Sold out
Barbara Davilman, Ellis Weiner |
Little,
Brown
And
Company
Yiddish With Dick And Jane
Regular price
$10.90
$3.90
64% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.92
Regular price
$10.90
$3.90
64% off
- Unit price
- / per
83% off est. retail
Imagine the world through a Yiddish lens with this book. It's a playful twist on the childhood innocence embodied by Dick and Jane, infused with the expressive richness of Yiddish. It's not just for those with a penchant for linguistics or Jewish culture; anyone who appreciates a dash of humor mixed with a touch of nostalgia will find themselves chuckling page after page.
Sold out
$12.90
- Unit price
- / per
64% off est. retail
If you melted into the pages of "Call Me by Your Name," then "Find Me" is a reunion with old flames you didn't know you needed. André Aciman's eloquence in exploring the enduring tides of love and the paths it carves in our lives makes this a compelling read. Dive back into a world where every glance and every touch is laden with meaning and potential.
Sold out
$3.90
- Unit price
- / per
"Sing You Home" isn't just a story; it's an emotional journey. If you're drawn to narratives that tackle real-world issues with depth and compassion, then Jodi Picoult's handling of complex relationships and the intricacies of gay rights will resonate with you. The unique perspectives of Zoe, Max, and Vanessa offer a multifaceted look at love and family, making it a compelling read for anyone who appreciates nuanced drama.
Sold out
Brice Particelli
|
Persea
In The Between - 21St Century Short Stories
$6.34
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.11
$6.34
- Unit price
- / per
72% off est. retail
Recommendation: This collection of short stories is a powerful exploration of the complexities of contemporary America. With diverse characters and compelling narratives, the book challenges societal norms and pushes readers to question their own identities and beliefs. The stories are beautifully written and emotionally charged, offering a unique and intimate perspective on the struggles and triumphs of individuals from different backgrounds. Whether you're seeking thought-provoking stories or a deeper understanding of the social fabric of America, "In The Between" is a must-read.
Sold out
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
68% off est. retail
Gut Symmetries could be a good read for someone interested in a complex love story intertwined with physics theories. The book's unique feature is its exploration of relationships through the lens of particle physics and Grand Unified Theory. The love triangle in the book is fascinating and makes the story unforgettable.
Sold out
Sarah Winman
|
Headline
Publishing
Group
When God was a Rabbit : The Richard and Judy Bestseller
$7.79
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.76
$7.79
- Unit price
- / per
70% off est. retail
"When God was a Rabbit" would be perfect for those who enjoy heart-warming and quirky coming-of-age stories. The book follows the life of a family over four decades, with a focus on the bond between a brother and sister. The standout feature is the eccentricity and quirkiness of the characters, making it an enjoyable read for those who enjoy stories with a little bit of whimsy.
Sold out
David Foster Wallace
|
Abacus
Brief Interviews With Hideous Men
$3.88
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.84
$3.88
- Unit price
- / per
79% off est. retail
This book is not for the faint of heart. It's a collection of short stories that delve into the psyche of men who are so afraid of women that they become grotesque. It's a thought-provoking read that will leave you questioning societal norms and gender roles. If you're a fan of David Foster Wallace's writing, this is a must-read. However, if you're looking for a light-hearted read, this is not the book for you.
Sold out
Edward St. Aubyn
|
Picador
Patrick Melrose Volume 2 : Mother's Milk and At Last
$8.10
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.92
$8.10
- Unit price
- / per
62% off est. retail
Patrick Melrose Volume 2 is a must-read for those who love family dramas and want to witness how the characters evolve over time. The novel's unique feature is its honest portrayal of the complexities of mastering the art of survival in familial relations with its painful realities, a mixture of tragedy, hilarity, and wit. Edward St Aubyn has a gorgeous writing style, which makes the reader feel unique and has the ability to encompass heavy human experiences with a sharp and at times humorous wit. Patrick Melrose is not an easy read, but it is a very rewarding one.
Sold out
$3.88
- Unit price
- / per
73% off est. retail
"Jesus' Son" could be a good read for those interested in character-driven stories that explore the darker side of human nature. The unnamed narrator's struggles with addiction provide a gritty but honest lens through which to view the lives of the lost and forgotten. Johnson's prose captures the beauty and despair of these characters, resulting in a haunting and unforgettable collection of stories.
Sold out
$3.88
- Unit price
- / per
85% off est. retail
Middlesex is a fascinating intergenerational saga about a Greek-American family that spans three generations. It is an illuminating narrative of the taboo subject of intersexuality. Eugenides artfully captures the emotions and identity struggle of an intersexual protagonist who battles with his/her gender identity as Cal explores his/her identity that transcends the constructs of conventional male and female. Recommended for readers who enjoy thought-provoking and poignant narratives on identity, culture and family.
Sold out
Grace Chia
|
Math
Paper
Press
We R Family - An Anthology
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.83
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
We R Family is a heartwarming and relatable anthology that celebrates the beauty of different types of families. The book features eight unique tales that showcase the joys and struggles of families from all over the world. The stories are beautifully written and will leave readers feeling grateful for the love and support in their own families. We R Family is perfect for anyone who loves heartwarming stories about love, family, and acceptance.
Sold out
Gwyn Hyman Rubio
|
Penguin
Books
Icy Sparks
Regular price
$7.90
$3.90
51% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.7
Regular price
$7.90
$3.90
51% off
- Unit price
- / per
82% off est. retail
This book would be a great read for someone interested in understanding the experience of living with Tourette's Syndrome. The novel provides an intimate portrayal of Icy's journey to self-acceptance and her struggles with being an outcast in her Appalachian community. The story also offers a poignant commentary on the importance of accepting others' differences and celebrating what makes each of us unique.
Sold out
Hanif Kureishi
|
Scribner
Intimacy And Midnight All Day - A Novel And Stories
$5.07
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.58
$5.07
- Unit price
- / per
86% off est. retail
This book would be a good read for those interested in complex and raw depictions of love and its aftermath. Hanif Kureishi explores the darker sides of relationships and intimacy with unflinching honesty in both a novel and a collection of original stories. Readers can expect to be challenged and confronted with uncomfortable truths about the complexities of human connection.
Sold out
Alan Hollinghurst
|
Vintage
The Swimming-Pool Library
Regular price
$7.72
$5.40
30% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.73
Regular price
$7.72
$5.40
30% off
- Unit price
- / per
78% off est. retail
The Swimming-Pool Library is a captivating novel that provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of gay men prior to the AIDS epidemic. Alan Hollinghurst vividly depicts the glamorous world of young aristocrat William Beckwith, who revels in his freedom to explore his sexuality. In contrast, the elderly Lord Nantwich is a poignant reminder of a generation whose traditions and values are rapidly disappearing. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBT history and culture.
Sold out
Wesley Stace
|
Vintage
Books
Misfortune - A Novel
Regular price
$7.90
$3.90
51% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.7
Regular price
$7.90
$3.90
51% off
- Unit price
- / per
74% off est. retail
Misfortune is a great read for someone interested in historical fiction with a twist. The book uniquely explores the concept of gender and inheritance in a comedic and tragic way. The story is entertaining, thought-provoking, and engaging. Readers will empathize with Rose's journey and understand the complexities of societal expectations and family values.
Sold out
Christos Tsiolkas
|
Atlantic
Books
Barracuda
Regular price
$8.90
$5.90
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.69
Regular price
$8.90
$5.90
34% off
- Unit price
- / per
77% off est. retail
"Barracuda" could be a good read for readers who enjoy introspective stories that delve deeply into the flawed psyche of a character. This book is unique in the way it portrays the world of competitive swimming, with the added dimension of class struggle and prejudices. The story also touches on themes of reconciliations and self-discovery, all the while providing vivid descriptions of swimming, which is refreshing and unusual. Overall, "Barracuda" is a poignant and moving book that will resonate with those who enjoy delving into the nuances of the human psyche.
Sold out
Amanda Lee Koe
|
Epigram
Books
Ministry of Moral Panic
$9.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 4.06
$9.90
- Unit price
- / per
If you're drawn to stories that blend cultural nuances with unflinching honesty, "Ministry of Moral Panic" is a remarkable journey through Singapore's heartbeats and undercurrents. Amanda Lee Koe's characters resonate with emotional depth, making this award-winning collection a literary discovery for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling with a distinctive voice.
Sold out
Carol Ann Duffy
|
Penguin
Books
Limited
Selected Poems
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.82
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
59% off est. retail
If you're drawn to poetry that speaks with a raw, vibrant voice about the human experience, this collection will be a treasure. Carol Ann Duffy masterfully weaves her thoughts and observations into verse that's both accessible and profound, making this a compelling read for anyone looking to immerse themselves in contemporary poetry. Each poem is a window into a different facet of life, inviting reflection and connection.
Sold out
Nell Freudenberger
|
Vintage
Lost and Wanted : A novel
Regular price
$9.90
$5.90
40% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.43
Regular price
$9.90
$5.90
40% off
- Unit price
- / per
76% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intersection of science and the supernatural, "Lost and Wanted" could resonate with you. It weaves together the cerebral world of a physicist with the emotional turmoil of unexpected loss, challenging the protagonist's—and possibly your own—views on reality versus the unexplainable. This is especially compelling if you appreciate stories that are as much about human relationships as they are about the enigmas of the universe.
Sold out
Daisy Johnson
|
Vintage
Everything Under : Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize
$7.32
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.52
$7.32
- Unit price
- / per
58% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for those who enjoy dark and mysterious tales. With its unique blend of fantasy and reality, "Everything Under" takes readers on a haunting journey into the depths of family secrets. Daisy Johnson's insightful storytelling and unsettling twists will keep you hooked until the very last page. Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize, this novel is an absolute treasure for lovers of atmospheric and thought-provoking literature.
Sold out
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
"Middlesex" isn't just another novel; it's a grand tapestry weaving through one compelling character's discovery of their identity against the backdrop of a rich family saga. Its deep dive into the complexities of gender, heredity, and cultural change is both enlightening and deeply moving. If you're looking to get lost in a story that spans generations and contemplates the larger questions of who we are, this is a book that will stay with you.
Sold out
Jeanette Winterson
|
Grove
Press
Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.73
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
63% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who is seeking a deeply personal and heartfelt coming-out story. "Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit" beautifully explores the struggles and triumphs of the narrator, Jeanette, as she navigates her identity amidst the rigid beliefs of her religious household. It is this delicate balance between faith and self-discovery that makes this book truly remarkable and relatable. Be prepared to be moved by the captivating storytelling and the raw emotions that unfold throughout the pages.
Sold out
$3.90
- Unit price
- / per
84% off est. retail
"Call Me By Your Name" will stir your emotions deeply with its raw portrayal of first love and desire. The Italian Riviera backdrop provides a lush, exotic setting for a romance that's both heady and profound. André Aciman's writing is exquisite, capturing the essence of passion and the agony and ecstasy of young love. It's a poignant journey that's unflinchingly honest and might just awaken your own memories of that one intoxicating summer fling that left an indelible mark on your soul.
Sold out
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
"Bestiary" could be a profound journey for you if the blend of magical realism and rich cultural heritage intrigue you. You'll explore the complexities of family and identity through the lens of Taiwanese American folklore, all wrapped in a poetically charged narrative. K-Ming Chang's vibrant storytelling will likely leave a lasting impression if you're drawn to tales that marry the mythic with the all-too-human desires and secrets.
Sold out
$7.11
- Unit price
- / per
Ministry of Moral Panic could be a good read for someone who is interested in unconventional, thought-provoking stories that explore the complexities of Singaporean culture and society. The book's unique and distinctive feature is its use of moral ambiguity and frank exploration of sexual themes. Readers may appreciate the way author Amanda Lee Koe challenges traditional notions of morality and societal norms.
Sold out
Eleanor Catton
|
Granta
The Rehearsal
Regular price
$3.18
$2.00
37% off
- Unit price
- / per
Goodreads rating: 3.44
Regular price
$3.18
$2.00
37% off
- Unit price
- / per
87% off est. retail
The Rehearsal could be a good read for individuals interested in exploring the complexities of teenage desire and the blurring of boundaries between public and private world. The novel combines both evocative and shrewd writing to create a story that stays with the reader even after finishing. The exploration of how public perception and performance affect personal relationships is a unique and thought-provoking feature that makes The Rehearsal worth reading.
Sold out
$9.77
- Unit price
- / per
61% off est. retail
Recommendation: The Master is a must-read for lovers of intimate character studies. Tóibín's portrayal of Henry James is both moving and beautiful, depicting the inner turmoil of a man who struggled to find intimacy and connection despite his intellectual prowess. The emotional intensity of this portrait will leave a lasting impression on readers.
Sold out
$8.90
- Unit price
- / per
"Cloud Atlas" is a journey that defies literary convention, offering a mix of history, science fiction, and thrilling adventure. As you dive into the six interconnected stories, you'll unravel a deeper understanding of how actions ripple through time, affecting lives far beyond our own. If you're intrigued by the notion that every life is connected and that stories can transcend time, this book is bound to be a remarkable read that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page.
- 1
- 2
You're viewing 51-83 of 83 products
Explore Modern Narratives
Whether you’re drawn to gritty urban plots or stories focused on tender relationships, novels in our Contemporary Fiction section echo the complexities of today’s world. Immerse yourself in stories that capture significant human experiences, by insightful authors from around the globe. This is our gateway to modern narratives shaping the future of literature.
Contemporary Fiction refers to literature set in the current day, often exploring themes relevant to today’s societies, cultures and struggles. Contemporary Fiction mirrors the present world and its challenges.
Try Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Haruki Murakami and Sally Rooney, whose works bring unique voices to the genre, capturing and offering diverse perspectives on modern life. Also we stock popular, bestselling contemporary authors such as Taylor Jenkins Reid, Jojo Moyes and Mitch Albom here!
Yes, definitely! We believe in highlighting local and regional voices. Explore our collection of Asian Contemporary Fiction for novels by Singaporean and Asian writers.