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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Bernard Lafourcade, Wyndham Lewis |
Black
Sparrow
Press
The Complete Wild Body
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Goodreads rating: 4.5
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This isn't your average read; it's a literary odyssey that delves deep into the physicality and the primal aspects of human existence. It's a ticket into a lush and untamed mental wilderness that could resonate with anyone looking to explore the depths of their senses and instincts. If you crave a narrative that gnaws at the raw edges of being, "The Complete Wild Body" could be a compelling companion.
Stephen Fry
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Arrow
The Liar
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Goodreads rating: 3.65
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If you find the blend of sharp wit and a penchant for escapades appealing, "The Liar" by Stephen Fry will be right up your alley. It's a clever tale that weaves layers of deception with intellectual banter, all sprinkled with Fry's distinct British humor. You might enjoy uncovering secrets alongside the protagonist while getting lost in the elegance of Fry's prose.
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Recommendation: "Man in the Dark" is a thought-provoking book that delves into the depths of a troubled mind, weaving together a haunting parallel reality and the painful aftermath of personal tragedy. Through the eyes of August Brill, this novel forces you to question the boundaries between imagination and reality, while navigating the complexities of grief and the power of storytelling. Auster's masterful prose will keep you engrossed until the very last page, leaving you contemplating the nature of existence and the healing power of human connection.
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"Love Life" would resonate with you if you're seeking a poignant narrative that dives deep into the soul-stirring challenges of a couple grappling with terminal illness. It's not just about the struggle with cancer, but also the profound exploration of relationships, the emotional turbulence of facing mortality, and the courage in confronting the most painful decisions with dignity. This book could help you find strength and perspective in the face of life’s most difficult moments.
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Ross Benjamin, Thomas Pletzinger |
W.w.
Norton
&
Company
Funeral For A Dog
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Goodreads rating: 3.61
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If you enjoy stories that interweave personal struggles with a dash of mystery, "Funeral for a Dog" could captivate you. Thomas Pletzinger artfully plays with narrative layers and literary references, offering a tale that resonates with the complexities of life and art. You might find yourself absorbed, not just by the enigmatic plot involving two writers but also by the rich tapestry of human experience Pletzinger weaves throughout.
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Simon Armitage's "The White Stuff" promises to be an enriching journey for anyone intrigued by the intersection of daily life and literary art. His background as a respected poet and his Yorkshire roots might infuse the pages with a unique blend of lyrical insights and northern English charm, perfect for readers who appreciate depth and local color in their prose.
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"Perfect Match" could be a good read for someone who is looking for a deeply emotional and thought-provoking story. The book's most unique and distinctive feature is its ability to explore complex moral dilemmas in an engaging and realistic manner. It's a book that will make you question your own beliefs and decisions, while also tugging at your heartstrings. Overall, "Perfect Match" is a beautiful and heartbreaking tale of love, loss, and secrets that will leave a lasting impact on anyone who reads it.
Amit Chaudhuri
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Oneworld
Publications
Freedom Song
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Goodreads rating: 3.38
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This book is perfect for anyone who appreciates the beauty in the mundane. Amit Chaudhuri weaves together the seemingly insignificant details of everyday life with profound tenderness, capturing the essence of human existence. Freedom Song is a thought-provoking exploration of big ideas, skillfully portrayed through relatable characters and their ordinary struggles. Prepare to be enchanted by Chaudhuri's exquisite prose as he captures the extraordinary beauty hidden within the smallest aspects of life.
Akhil Sharma
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Faber
&
Faber
Fiction
An Obedient Father
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"An Obedient Father" by Akhil Sharma is a compelling dive into the complexity of human morality. It meshes the chaotic energy of Delhi's slums with the personal struggles of Ram Karan, painting a portrait that is as unsettling as it is truthful. If you appreciate nuanced characters and moral ambiguity reminiscent of Dostoevsky, then the raw and revealing journey of this novel is for you.
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This book is a must-read for those who enjoy stories that blend humor and tragedy seamlessly. Julian Barnes masterfully captures the complexities of human relationships, exploring the themes of betrayal and redemption with wit and thoughtfulness. The use of crosscutting monologues provides an intimate look into each character's perspective, making the story all the more compelling. Love, etc. is a reminder that life is both tragic and comedic, and that sometimes, even in the midst of betrayal, there is a chance for redemption.
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This book is a captivating exploration of the transformative power of music and the pursuit of dreams. It takes you on a journey with Murdo, a teenager yearning for more, and his father Tom, both seeking solace and purpose as they travel through the American South. As you follow their expedition, you'll be immersed in the beauty of music, and you'll discover how it can heal, inspire, and bring people together. Get ready to be moved by the vivid characters, heartfelt emotions, and the allure of the open road in this enchanting novel.
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This book is a captivating exploration of the clash between truth and sensationalism. With an aging writer struggling to revive his career and a young biographer torn between uncovering the real story and appeasing his publisher's demands, "The Last Word" delves into the complexities of art, fame, and personal integrity. Kureishi's masterful storytelling keeps you guessing until the final page, leaving you questioning the nature of truth and who gets to control the narrative.
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This book could be a good read for someone who wants to delve into the complexities of being good in a modern world. It offers a hilarious and heartfelt journey of a marriage in crisis, while also prompting readers to question their own moral values. With its witty writing style and thought-provoking themes, How to Be Good is a captivating exploration of the human condition.
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Recommended for readers interested in social criticism. The book's unique feature lies in its satirical portrayal of the corrupt upper class and racial tensions in 1980s New York. It provides a scathing commentary on the societal decay of the era, making it a must-read for those who enjoy books that critique contemporary issues.
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Dave Eggers
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Mcsweeney's
A Hologram For The King - A Novel
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Goodreads rating: 3.29
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Dive into "A Hologram For The King" if you seek a captivating tale of one man's pursuit of success, amidst a backdrop of cultural clashes and personal struggles. Dave Eggers skillfully weaves together the protagonist's desperate journey to secure a business contract and the unraveling of his own beliefs and values. The vivid description of the rising Saudi Arabian city and the protagonist's inner turmoil make it an exceptional read for those looking to explore themes of identity, ambition, and the human spirit. Buckle up for a thought-provoking and evocative adventure!
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John Banville
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Vintage
Books
The Book of Evidence
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"The Book of Evidence" could be a good read for those interested in psychological thrillers. The book's unique and distinctive feature is the protagonist's chillingly articulate, self-aware, and amoral nature, which makes for a compelling and unsettling read. Users may appreciate the book's exploration of the depths of human nature and the consequences of one's actions.
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Elizabeth Strout
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Penguin
My Name Is Lucy Barton
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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.
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Recommendation: This book is highly recommended for readers who enjoy dark and suspenseful thrillers. The unique angle of the story, which revolves around blackmail, corruption and torture over the trade of Hitler's scandalous home movie, makes it an addictive read. Multiple characters from different walks of life come together to find this sought after piece, all while running the risk of untimely deaths. Don DeLillo's portrayal of everyday life situations mixed with a touch of surrealism will leave readers hooked till the last page.
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"Amsterdam could be a great read for fans of Ian McEwan’s unique ability to explore complex moral issues in a gripping and entertaining way. This short novel stands out for its witty writing style, unpredictable plot twists, and its thought-provoking examination of the ties that bind friendships. Readers may appreciate the novel’s exploration of love and politics and how they intersect with personal relationships. Overall, Amsterdam offers a satisfying read that will keep you engaged until its shocking conclusion."
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John Lanchester
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Picador
Classic
The Debt To Pleasure
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Goodreads rating: 3.74
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The Debt To Pleasure is a thrilling read for food lovers who enjoy a touch of dark humor. The eccentric and hedonistic narrator, Tarquin Winot, takes us on a gastronomic journey through his delectable menus, which become increasingly sinister as the story progresses. John Lanchester's beautiful prose and intricate plotting will keep readers engaged until the surprising conclusion. This book is perfect for those who enjoy unconventional thrillers or simply appreciate exquisite food writing.
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John Banville
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Picador
Classic
The Book of Evidence
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The Book of Evidence is a fascinating read that delves into the mind of a narcissistic and reckless murderer. Despite his lack of remorse, the narrator shares his testimony, making the reader question their own beliefs about justice and responsibility. This novel is highly recommended for fans of crime fiction who enjoy thought-provoking reads that challenge their moral compass.
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"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.
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Alison Jean Lester
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G.p.
Putnam's
Sons
Lillian on Life
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Goodreads rating: 3.46
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This is the story of Lillian, a single woman reflecting on her choices and imagining her future. Born in the Midwest in the 1930s; Lillian lives, loves, and works in Europe in the fifties and early sixties; she settles in New York and pursues the great love of her life in the sixties and seventies. Now it’s the early nineties, and she’s taking stock. Throughout her life, walking the unpaved road between traditional and modern choices for women, Lillian grapples with parental disappointment and societal expectations, wins and loses in love, and develops her own brand of wisdom. Lillian on Life lifts the skin off the beautiful, stylish product of an era to reveal the confused, hot-blooded woman underneath.
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Chuck Palahniuk
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Anchor
Snuff
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Goodreads rating: 3.22
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If you're drawn to the unorthodox narratives that challenge societal norms, "Snuff" by Chuck Palahniuk might be right up your alley. The book delves into the underbelly of adult film industry with a unique narrative structure, shifting perspectives that keep the pace brisk and the tone darkly comic. It's a potent commentary on fame, mortality, and the consumption of media—all wrapped in Palahniuk's signature style of provocative storytelling.
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Raj Kamal Jha
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Macmillan
Pub
Ltd
If You Are Afraid Of Heights
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Goodreads rating: 3.25
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If You Are Afraid Of Heights is a captivating book that weaves together multiple stories into one. It is a unique blend of reality and fantasy that will leave the reader wanting more. Recommended for those who appreciate intricate storytelling and are not afraid to explore the darker corners of life.
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Haddon Paul
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Great
Britain
A Spot of Bother
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Goodreads rating: 3.49
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"A Spot of Bother" is a great read for fans of dysfunctional family dramas and dark humor. Through the lens of George's dementia, Haddon explores the complex relationships between family members and how they cope with unexpected changes. The family's struggles and dynamics are disturbingly relatable, making this book a thought-provoking and entertaining read.
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This book is a deeply introspective and haunting exploration of one man's struggle with his past, his identity, and his relationships. The author weaves a lyrical narrative that delves into the complexities of memory and the human psyche. The protagonist's journey takes us on a rollercoaster of emotions as we witness his unraveling and the impacts it has on those around him. With beautiful prose and a thought-provoking storyline, Eclipse is a must-read for those who appreciate profound introspection and a touch of melancholy.
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Michael Cunningham
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Farrar,
Straus
And
Giroux
Snow Queen
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Goodreads rating: 3.08
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Recommendation: This captivating novel explores the intertwining journeys of two brothers and their pursuit of meaning and connection. With poetic prose and deep insight into the human experience, Michael Cunningham delves into themes of love, faith, and creativity. The Snow Queen will leave you contemplating the complexities of life and the power of transcendence.
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"Trespass" by Rose Tremain is a captivating novel that will keep you at the edge of your seat with its web of secrets, betrayals, and revenge. The author paints a vivid depiction of the isolated stone farmhouse in Southern France and the haunting histories of its inhabitants. Anthony Verey's arrival sets in motion a series of events that will leave you breathless with suspense. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a thrilling mystery with intricate plot twists.
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Yang-May Ooi
|
Monsoon
Books
Pte.
Ltd.
The Flame Tree
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The Flame Tree is a great read for those interested in exploring themes of cultural identity and moral choices. This book offers an insider's look into the fast-developing country of Malaysia, while also exploring themes of East vs West. The protagonist's struggle to choose between her old life and new, and her cultural identity, is relatable and thought-provoking.
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Jonathan Franzen
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Harpercollins
Pb
Strong Motion
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Goodreads rating: 3.53
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For fans of complex, thought-provoking fiction, 'Strong Motion' provides a riveting narrative as it unveils the intricate relationships between its diverse characters. With earthquakes serving as a metaphor for the instability of modern life, readers are taken through a journey of family, inheritance, and the search for deeper meaning in a world that seems to be continually shifting. Franzen's writing is unapologetically intense and introspective, making 'Strong Motion' a powerful and engaging read.
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Selection Day is a great read for sports lovers, especially cricket enthusiasts. It showcases the competitive world of sports, the dynamics between siblings and the struggle of finding oneself amidst the expectations of others. The richly developed characters and witty narrative will keep readers engaged throughout the story.
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Alison Anderson, Muriel Barbery |
Gallic
Books
The Elegance of the Hedgehog
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Goodreads rating: 3.8
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The book explores the depths of human emotion and the complexity of societal hierarchy through the eyes of Rene and Paloma. It is a good read for those who appreciate character-driven stories and want to explore the dynamics of class and culture. The French setting adds another layer of depth to the story.
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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.
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Tom Stoppard
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Faber
And
Faber
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead
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Goodreads rating: 4.04
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If you revel in sharp wit meshed with profound contemplation, Stoppard's masterpiece will not disappoint. It takes the familiar story of 'Hamlet' and provides a fresh, introspective angle, inviting you to ponder the roles of secondary characters in life's great drama. The play's blend of hilarity and depth holds a mirror to the randomness of existence, making it a timeless read for anyone who enjoys theatre and literature with layers.
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John Kennedy Toole, Walker Percy |
Penguin
Books
A Confederacy of Dunces
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Meet Ignatius J. Reilly: flatulent, eloquent and pretty much unemployable...The ordinary folk of New Orleans seem to think he is unhinged as well. Ignatius ignores them as he heaves his vast bulk through the city's fleshpots in a noble crusade against vice, modernity and ignorance. But his momma has a nasty surprise in store for him. Ignatius must get a job. Undaunted, he uses his new-found employment to further his mission - and now he has a pirate costume and a hot-dog cart to do it with ...
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"Secret Manta" is a dive into the transformative power of poetry, blending Asian culture, personal experiences, and the nuances of identity. It's like a secret passage into the author's soul, one that resonates with anyone interested in exploring the multifaceted layers of self and culture. If you're looking to connect with poetry on a deep, almost spiritual level, then let this book be your guide.
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Marisha Pessl
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Penguin
Books
Ltd
Special Topics in Calamity Physics
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Goodreads rating: 3.7
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This book would be a great read for anyone who enjoys a mystery intertwined with intellectual commentary and a coming-of-age story. Marisha Pessl's unique writing style and use of literary references throughout the novel add a distinctive touch to the story, keeping readers engaged until the very end.
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Ian Jack
|
Granta
Granta 81
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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.
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.