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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Harvest - Thryft
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Jim Crace | Picador

Harvest

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Goodreads rating: 3.59

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"Harvest" by Jim Crace is a thrilling read that captures the tension and fear that arises from outsider interference in a small community. The book offers unique insight into the power struggles that take place in insular societies and the fear that leads to scapegoating and accusations of witchcraft. This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, especially those interested in the darker aspects of human nature.
Purity - Thryft
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Jonathan Franzen | 4th State

Purity

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Goodreads rating: 3.64

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Recommendation: Purity is a sweeping tale that seamlessly intertwines a range of characters from different backgrounds, as their stories unfold in landscapes ranging from contemporary society to the fall of the Berlin Wall. Franzen's writing is captivates and deeply inter-textual, taking readers through a twisting plot marked by youthful idealism, extreme fidelity, and even murder. This book is ideal for those interested in a thought-provoking mystery with well-crafted characters, and for anyone looking to explore themes of individual identity and how it impacted social relations in the past and present.
Absolution - Thryft
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Patrick Flanery | Atlantic Books

Absolution

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Goodreads rating: 3.58

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Recommendation: "Absolution is for those looking to delve into the complex world of a mother, critic, and author’s past, while also grappling with their own inner demons. Patrick Flanery masterfully weaves together a story that keeps readers questioning the fine line between truth and lies, while exploring the dark history of South Africa. Highly recommended for those interested in introspective and thought-provoking reads."
The Versions of Us
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Laura Barnett | Weidenfeld And Nicolson

The Versions of Us

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Goodreads rating: 3.54

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Imagine if one choice could alter all of life's upcoming chapters. "The Versions of Us" is a captivating dive into this profound question, tracing Eva and Jim's potential futures starting from a fleeting moment in 1958. It's the perfect read for anyone who relishes in the bittersweet musings of 'what could have been', and delights in following the intricate tapestries of life and love woven by small, pivotal decisions.
In the Kitchen - Thryft
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Monica Ali | Scribner

In the Kitchen

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Goodreads rating: 2.76

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Synopsis:
Book by Ali, Monica

About the Author:

MONICA ALI  has been named by Granta as one of the twenty best young British novelists. She is the author of In the Kitchen, Alentejo Blue, and Brick Lane, which was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize. She lives in London with her husband and two children.


Author: Ali, Monica
Format: Soft cover
Number of Pages: 592
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Ome
Publication Date: 2010
Corridor
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Alfian Sa'at | Ethos Books

Corridor

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Goodreads rating: 3.6

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"Corridor" takes you through the vivid corridors of Singapore, painting an intimate portrait of its people. If you're keen on stories that resonate with emotional depth and a keen eye for the struggles against modernity, Alfian Sa'at's unvarnished narratives will captivate you. It's like holding a mirror to the delicate balance between progress and the personal, where every page offers a slice of life that's both uniquely Singaporean and universally human.
BooksActually’s Gold Standard 2016
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Tom Cho, Julie Koh  | Math Paper Press

BooksActually’s Gold Standard 2016

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Goodreads rating: 3.8

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If you're looking to broaden your literary horizons, "BooksActually’s Gold Standard 2016" serves as an excellent gateway. The richness of East and Southeast Asian storytelling is on full display here, with each author bringing a unique perspective and voice to the anthology. It's a rare opportunity to simultaneously dive into a multitude of cultures, experiences, and narratives that will likely introduce you to new thoughts and worlds.
The Rehearsal - Thryft
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Eleanor Catton | Granta

The Rehearsal

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Goodreads rating: 3.44

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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.
The Master - Thryft
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Colm Tóibín | Scribner

The Master

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Goodreads rating: 3.84

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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.
Cloud Atlas : A Novel - Thryft
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David Mitchell | Random House

Cloud Atlas

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Goodreads rating: 4.01

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"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.
The Sellout - Thryft
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Paul Beatty | Pan Macmillan

The Sellout

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Goodreads rating: 3.75

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45% off est. retail
This book is a thought-provoking and satirical exploration of race and identity. The main character, raised in a racially charged environment, takes on a mission to reclaim his hometown and challenge societal norms through outrageous actions. It challenges the reader to question the concepts of race, equality, and the impact of history on the present. If you're looking for a book that will make you reflect on social issues in a clever and entertaining way, this is for you.
The Casual Vacancy
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J.K. Rowling | Little, Brown And Company

The Casual Vacancy

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Goodreads rating: 3.31

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If you appreciate narratives rich with social commentary and enjoy exploring the darker aspects of seemingly picturesque settings, then "The Casual Vacancy" might resonate with you. As J.K. Rowling's first delve into adult fiction, it offers a layered and thought-provoking examination of the human condition, laid bare in the microcosm of a small town. It's a book for those who like their stories nuanced, their characters flawed, and their societal reflections candid.
A History of the World in 10 1/2 Chapters
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Julian Barnes | Picador

A History of the World in 10 1/2 Chapters

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Goodreads rating: 3.88

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Julian Barnes' "A History of the World in 10 1/2 Chapters" isn't just a novel; it's a literary jigsaw puzzle that invites you to piece together a picture of humanity from an offbeat angle. With a blend of humor, intellect, and emotional depth, it offers a refreshing take on the stories we thought we knew. If you're looking for a read that challenges conventions and stays with you long after the final page, this might just be the one to pick up next. It's an imaginative trek through time that manages to entertain as much as it provokes thought.
The Immortalists
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Chloe Benjamin | Penguin Random House Usa Ex

The Immortalists

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Goodreads rating: 3.71

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77% off est. retail
"The Immortalist" could resonate with you if you're intrigued by life's existential questions and the ripple effects of our choices. The novel masterfully interweaves the stories of four siblings, each uniquely influenced by a single prophecy. Its rich narrative might make you ponder the tension between fate and free will, and how the belief in one's destiny can become self-fulfilling. It's a compelling read for anyone who appreciates family sagas and the mingling of life's what-ifs with reality.
The Great Santini - Thryft
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Pat Conroy | Dial Press Trade Paperback

The Great Santini

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Goodreads rating: 4.15

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94% off est. retail
This book depicts the raw emotions felt by the son of a domineering military father, who rules his family with an iron fist. Pat Conroy creates an explosive character in Bull Meecham that one should hate, but will ultimately love. Readers will find themselves drawn into this vivid and dramatic novel.
Paddy Clarke Ha, Ha, Ha
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Roddy Doyle | Minerva Press

Paddy Clarke Ha, Ha, Ha

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Goodreads rating: 3.75

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If you find yourself nostalgic for childhood adventures and the bittersweet transition to the adult world, "Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha" could be a treasure for you. Roddy Doyle captures the essence of growing up with humor and poignancy, all through the eyes of a little boy who's starting to see the world change around him. This isn't just another childhood story; it's a window into the soul of the youthful years, with all their mischief, wonder, and the dawning of complex realities.
The Marriage Plot - Thryft
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Jeffrey Eugenides | Fourth Estate

The Marriage Plot

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Goodreads rating: 3.47

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58% off est. retail
Recommendation: The Marriage Plot is a thought-provoking exploration of love, literature, and self-discovery. Eugenides' prose is both lush and lucid, and his characters are richly drawn and fully realized. The unique feature of this book is its examination of the role of literature and storytelling in our lives, and the ways in which our own narratives shape our decisions and destinies. This book would be perfect for anyone who enjoys literary fiction, complex characters, and a deep dive into the human psyche.

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.