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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Sally Rooney
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Faber
&
Faber
Conversations With Friends
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Goodreads rating: 3.74
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"Conversations with Friends" might just resonate with you if you're drawn to the intricacies of human connections and the journey of self-discovery. Picture nights filled with clever banter, the allure of new, exciting social circles, and the rawness of confronting inner vulnerabilities. Sally Rooney crafts characters that feel almost tangibly real, inviting you into the heart of their messy, intertwined lives.
Will Self
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Penguin
Liver: A Fictional Organ With a Surface Anatomy of Four Lobes
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Goodreads rating: 3.38
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If you're someone who enjoys deeply metaphorical stories that play with both language and structure, "Liver" might just be to your taste. It's a uniquely crafted tale that delves into the human condition by exploring the liver as more than an organ—but as a landscape of life's complexities. You might find it's a read that lingers with you, much like a rich aftertaste, encouraging profound thought about the interplay of life and body.
Tobias Wolff
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Ecco
Pr
In the Garden of North American Martyrs
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Tobias Wolff's mastery at painting life's complexities in short sharp bursts makes "In the Garden of North American Martyrs" a compelling read. Each story offers a unique glimpse into the human condition, revealing our shared vulnerabilities and moments of quiet desperation. If you intrigue on the subtleties of human behavior under duress, these stories might just echo long after you turn the last page.
Ferris Joshua Joshua Ferris
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Penguin
Books
Unnamed the Air Exp
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Goodreads rating: 3.33
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Imagine feeling trapped in your own body, compelled to walk without end. Ferris crafts a deeply human narrative surrounding Tim Farnsworth's life and strain on his marriage, as he's gripped by an inexplicable disorder. It's a raw exploration of the human condition, melding the absurd with the tragic. If you're drawn to character-driven stories that walk the fine line between reality and allegory, this might just resonate with you.
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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.
Just Arrived
Jonathan Safran Foer
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Penguin
Books
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
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Goodreads rating: 3.97
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This resonates deeply with anyone who's lost a loved one, as Oskar's journey is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming. Through his eyes, the bustling city of New York transforms into a labyrinth of memories and emotions, each lock he encounters acting as a metaphor for unraveling the complexities of grief. Jonathan Safran Foer masterfully paints a portrait of a young boy's determination and the impact of collective tragedy with a touch of innocence that's both profound and uplifting.
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If you enjoy the quirky charm of Woody Allen's films, "Mere Anarchy" offers similar delight in written form. These eighteen tales blend the surreal with the satirical, all penned with Allen's distinctive wit. Perfect for fans of intelligent humor and verbal gymnastics, this collection serves as a creative respite from reality, peppered with absurdity and insightful comedic twists.
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If you've ever fallen in love, deeply and thought-provokingly, "The Only Story" might echo within you long after the final page is turned. Julian Barnes has a way of delving into the fabric of early romance and its long-term consequences that feels both universal and intimately personal. His narrative reflects on the complexities of love and memory, tempting you to question your own past experiences and the stories you tell yourself. This is not just a novel, it's a mirror onto the heart's intricate tapestry.
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If you found "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time" endearing, "A Spot of Bother" offers a similar charm but within the sphere of adult family life. Mark Haddon returns with his keen insight into human nature, this time exploring the mental turmoil of a retiree against the backdrop of family dysfunction. It's poignant, darkly humorous, and profoundly relatable, making you chuckle and wince in equal measure.
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This introspective novel explores the complexities of dealing with childhood trauma and the repercussions it may have on one's adulthood. Alison Moore vividly captures the scenic landscapes Futh takes on his circular walk along the Rhine, while seamlessly interweaving memories of his childhood trauma and its impact on his personality. The Lighthouse is a must-read for those interested in introspective journeys of self-discovery.
Jonathan Franzen
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Fourth
Estate
Paperbacks
The Corrections
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Goodreads rating: 3.84
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Franzen's "The Corrections" masterfully unravels the messy, intertwined lives of the Lambert family with sharp wit and deep insight. If you enjoy rich character development and a narrative that captures the absurdities of modern life, this may be the next book on your list. It's not just a story—it's a mirror to the quintessential American life, reflecting personal and societal struggles that resonate long after the last page is turned.
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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.
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"A Good Day To Die" pulls you into a world of reckless abandon and the intensity of youth. Jim Harrison crafts a narrative that's simultaneously a wild adventure and a sobering examination of the human spirit. It's a compelling read for anyone who relishes tales of idealism gone awry, capturing the turmoil of the '60s and '70s with a visceral power that echoes through the decades. If you enjoy stories that combine the thrill of the journey with the depth of introspection, this one will resonate with you.
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If you're drawn to character-rich narratives with an introspective flair, "The Heather Blazing" might just resonate with you. Colm Toibin is a craftsman of language and emotion, weaving past and present to explore the complexities of a seemingly controlled life. The quiet unraveling of Eamon's existence as he confronts his memories offers a poignant look into human vulnerability, an aspect that could make you reflect on your own life's structure and the tides of change.
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Gravity could be a good read for someone who enjoys emotional and introspective stories about love and loss. The book explores the journey of a young woman as she copes with the tragedy that severs her connection with her childhood best friend. Through this journey, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately finding her own sense of gravity in the world. Fans of Robert M. Drake's previous works would likely enjoy this novel.
Just Arrived
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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.
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If you relish stories that uncover the extraordinary within the ordinary, Tessa Hadley's collection will speak to you. Hadley skillfully transforms everyday moments into pivotal experiences, capturing the universal in the specific. It's a read that promises to leave you with a renewed appreciation for life's quiet yet defining moments.
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"On Beauty" will resonate with you if you enjoy dissecting the complexities of family dynamics and the idea of beauty in imperfection. Zadie Smith offers a vibrant and satirical look at academic pretensions, cultural clashes, and the stumbling humanity within us all. She writes with wit that cuts deep, yet somehow manages to cradle the reader’s heart with an understanding of life's true beauties — imperfections and all.
Tom McCarthy, Deborah Levy |
Faber
And
Faber
Swimming Home
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Goodreads rating: 3.43
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"Swimming Home" by Deborah Levy is a compelling dive into the complexity of human emotions and the secrets that lie beneath the surface of our lives. If you're someone who appreciates lyrical prose and psychological depth in characters, this novel is likely to resonate deeply with you. It's a relatively short read, but don't be fooled—the impact of Levy's storytelling is profound and lasting.
Nick Hornby
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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.
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This book could be a good read for someone who is captivated by the complexities of both the artistic world and personal relationships. Ethan Hawke's protagonist takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions as he navigates the wreckage of his personal life while immersing himself in the demanding world of theater. The raw and honest portrayal of shame, beauty, and faith, combined with Hawke's lyrical prose, makes this novel a captivating and thought-provoking read. It's a testament to the power of art in healing and finding one's way back to oneself.
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"Let the Great World Spin" is a tapestry of heartfelt stories, each thread revealing the soul of New York City through its characters. If you're drawn to narratives that transform the mundane into the extraordinary, where every page offers a stark yet poetic glimpse into human connections against the backdrop of historical events, this book might just resonate with you. It's a tribute to the city's resilience and the remarkable ways lives intersect—made even more poignant by Colum McCann's deft storytelling.
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"Marshmallow" offers a poignant exploration of the ways a single event can ripple through lives, leaving a profound impact on relationships and personal trajectories. If you're drawn to stories that delve deeply into the emotional complexities of human connections and the haunting power of shared experiences, this book might speak to you. It's a tale that's sure to resonate with anyone who appreciates a narrative where joy and tragedy are intertwined, reflecting the unpredictability of life itself.
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"A Song for Issy Bradley" gently unspools the threads of belief and sorrow that intertwine in a family's life. If you're looking to connect with deeply human characters grappling with profound loss while clinging onto to their faith, this book will resonate with you. Carys Bray offers a nuanced exploration of how different people cope with tragedy, making it a touching read that's sure to leave an imprint on your heart.
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If you're drawn to stories that strike a delicate balance between humor and pathos, Adam Johnson's "Fortune Smiles" could be a compelling addition to your library. Johnson invites you into intricately woven narratives that offer a fresh perspective on the world, mixing the surreal with the all-too-real. Each story in this collection promises a journey that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
Alicia Drake
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Picador
I Love You Too Much
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"I Love You Too Much" by Alicia Drake brings you into the heart of Paris through the eyes of young Paul. If you've ever felt invisible in a world obsessed with appearances, this book will resonate with you. Paul's journey deals with the poignant realities of growing up and seeking love, all set against a backdrop of Parisian elegance that often feels cold to a boy just looking for warmth. This narrative might just change the way you see the city of lights and the pains of adolescence.
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If you've ever felt caught in the tension between ambition and domesticity, "Freedom" might resonate with you. Jonathan Franzen's exploration of a family navigating through modern challenges offers a deep dive into personal and societal expectations. It's a story that unfolds with such precision and depth, you'll find yourself pondering your own choices and freedoms.
Just Arrived
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If you've ever thought royalty stick solely to tradition and protocol, "The Uncommon Reader" will charm you with its delightful premise of the Queen herself becoming enamored with the world of books. Alan Bennett spins a tale that's both subversive and heartwarming, inviting you to ponder the transformative power of reading. It's a short read, but it's rich with wit and a gentle nudge to rediscover your own love for literature.
Martin Rowson, Will Self |
Grove
Press
The Sweet Smell of Psychosis
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Goodreads rating: 3.4
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If your taste in literature veers towards the darkly satirical and unapologetically sharp, "The Sweet Smell of Psychosis" might just hit the spot. Will Self thrusts you into a world where the lines between ambition and self-destruction blur, with a protagonist whose naivety leads to a twisted journey. It's a short, biting critique of the media world that can be devoured in one sitting, offering a mix of bemusement and horror that could draw you in – if you're one for cynicism wrapped in wit.
Just Arrived
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If you relish tales where the mundane spirals into absurdity, "Care of Wooden Floors" could tickle your fancy. Will Wiles masterfully blends the trivialities of housekeeping with a humorous existential crisis. Perfect for those who appreciate a touch of Kafkaesque flavor in their humor – it's a wry observation of life's unpredictabilities within the frame of a seemingly simple task.
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.
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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.
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If you're in search of a book that digs deep into the complexities of human experience, Alice Munro's "Too Much Happiness" is for you. Munro's storytelling might feel unsettlingly familiar, as her characters navigate the landscapes of love, loss, and personal resilience with a grounded wisdom that reverberates with reality. Her prose is deceptively simple yet rich in detail, perfect for readers who appreciate nuance and the poignancy of everyday life.
Anita Shreve
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Little,
Brown
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Company
Testimony: A Novel
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Recommended for readers interested in exploring complex human relationships and the aftermath of scandal. Shreve's writing style is immersive and will keep you engaged until the very end.
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Alby's story in "Making Nice" could resonate with you if you appreciate a protagonist with a rough exterior and a complex, broken interior. It's the gritty and raw narrative, sprinkled with savage humor, that makes this book more than just a journey through dysfunctional antics. You'll find that its goofy, unrefined humanity offers a cathartic exploration of dealing with loss in an imperfect world.
Thomas E. Kennedy
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Bloomsbury
Uk
Falling Sideways
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Goodreads rating: 3.15
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If you've ever felt lost in the absurdity of office politics or enjoyed a satirical take on the corporate world, "Falling Sideways" could be your cup of tea. Thomas E. Kennedy's wit gives life to a high-stakes game of professional survival, filled with intrigue and dark humor. It's a sharp, observant journey through the human side of a cutthroat business environment that'll resonate with anyone who's ever fought to keep afloat in the corporate aquarium.
Maeve Binchy
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Orion
Chestnut Street
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Chestnut Street could be a good read for someone looking for a collection of heartwarming and relatable stories. Maeve Binchy's superb storytelling brings to life the lives of the residents on Chestnut Street, capturing their struggles, triumphs, and unexpected turns. With enough kindness, wisdom, and insight into human nature, this book is a reminder of why Maeve Binchy is beloved by readers worldwide.
Anna Gavalda
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Chatto
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Windus
Consolation
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"Consolation," more than its title suggests, is a journey through the merits of reflecting on past loves and the potential for rebirth in unexpected places. As Charles's world tumbles, Gavalda expertly weaves the beauty of human connections, with characters that are as flawed as they are endearing. This novel promises to touch your heart with its profound take on life's unpredictable ability to heal us. If you've loved and lost, this book is a balm, reading as an ode to the resilience of the human spirit.
Clara Chow
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Ethos
Books
Dream Storeys
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Dream Storeys is a great read for anyone who is interested in architecture and design. The book is a unique blend of fiction and journalism, taking the reader on a journey through paper structures that have never been built. The short stories are imaginative and captivating, bringing to life the voices of urban visionaries and their ideas. If you are looking for a book that will inspire you to think outside the box and push the boundaries of what is possible in architecture, then Dream Storeys is definitely for you.
Amanda Eyre Ward
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Harper
Perennial
FORGIVE ME PB
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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.
Zoë Heller
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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.
Sue Miller
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Bloomsbury
Uk
The Lake Shore Limited
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Goodreads rating: 3.37
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The Lake Shore Limited explores grief and loss in a captivating way, drawing from the experience of the author. The novel's masterful storytelling weaves together the lives of its characters and touches on themes of love, loss, and the choices we make. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone looking for a powerful and moving story that will stay with them long after they finish it.
Anita Shreve
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Mariner
Books
Eden Close
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Goodreads rating: 3.68
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"Eden Close is a must-read for those who enjoy exploring complicated relationships that are marked by tragedy. Anita Shreve's masterful storytelling will leave you gripped until the very last page as she unravels the twisted web of love and loss that connects Andrew, Eden and their families. Be prepared to be moved by this tale of redemption and forgiveness."
Walter Kirn
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Anchor
Up in the Air
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Goodreads rating: 2.88
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If you've ever felt caught in the hustle of a corporate life or know the strange limbo of airports and hotels, "Up in the Air" might speak to you on a personal level. This book not only offers sharp social insights but also echoes the profound solitude that can accompany success. It's a witty commentary on modern life that will make you contemplate your own relationship with work and identity.
Peter Cameron
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Farrar,
Straus
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Giroux
The City of Your Final Destination
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Goodreads rating: 3.87
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If the whimsy of unexpected travel entices you or the complexity of love intrigues you, "The City of Your Final Destination" might just be your next favorite read. This novel is more than a tale of seeking permission for a biography—it's a discovery of desires and choices. Cameron's mastery of language paints each character vividly, elicits smiles, and promises a refreshing examination of how the unpredictability of love can redefine our destinies. It's for those who appreciate life's serendipitous moments and the elegance in human connections.
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Empty string.
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"Good Neighbor" is a heartwarming collection of short stories exploring the complexities of human relationships. From helping each other during difficult times to sharing a cup of tea, the book portrays the importance of having good neighbors and their impact on our lives. The book is perfect for those who enjoy heartwarming stories and exploring the intricacies of human relationships.
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This book is a captivating exploration of the intertwining lives of three friends in New York City. The author skillfully captures the complexities of ambition, friendship, and the pursuit of success. With its richly drawn characters and engrossing storyline, The Emperor's Children immerses readers in a world of glamour, self-discovery, and the consequences of unexpected decisions. A must-read for anyone seeking a beautifully observed novel that delves into the hopes, dreams, and challenges of a generation navigating adulthood in a fast-paced city.
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"Revolutionary Road" precisely captures the malaise that often lurks beneath the surface of suburban perfection. Yates's unflinching narrative offers a poignant exploration of ambition, disillusionment, and the unspoken complexities of marital life. If you're drawn to stories that dissect the human condition and the often-painful pursuit of exceptionalism, this novel will resonate deeply with you.
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This bilingual book offers insight into Chinese customs and traditions surrounding the concepts of good fortune, happiness, longevity, and celebration. It includes beautiful illustrations and explanations of related symbols and practices. A great choice for anyone interested in understanding and appreciating Chinese culture.
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.